JDU ON BARRIER-FREE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY: KNOWLEDGE IN SERVICE OF HEALTH & COMMUNITY

In the April episodes of the “Chwila dla zdrowia” (“A Moment for Health”) programme on Radio Fiat, a conversation about movement became a broader discussion on prevention, independence, and social inclusion. Prof. Jacek Wąsik from Jan Dlugosz University in Czestochowa together with Beata Niemczyk-Bajor, emphasized that properly selected physical activity can support seniors, people with disabilities, and intergenerational cooperation.

Jan Dlugosz University in Czestochowa contributes to public health debates not only through education and research but also through the involvement of its experts in discussions important to the local community. In the April broadcasts of “Chwila dla zdrowia,” physical activity was presented in a broader sense - beyond exercise - as a component of prevention, quality of life, personal agency, and relationship-building.

The guests of Elżbieta Markowska were Prof. Jacek Wąsik, Head of the Institute of Physical Culture Sciences at JDU, and Beata Niemczyk-Bajor, a Zumba Gold instructor.

Prof. Wąsik’s expertise introduced key insights from the field of physical culture sciences. He highlighted the importance of regularity, gradual progression, and tailoring physical activity to participants’ abilities. He noted that physical activity supports not only physical fitness but also well-being, balance, motor memory, spatial orientation, and mental health. At the same time, it was emphasized that in cases of dizziness, shortness of breath, balance disorders, or other concerning symptoms, planned activity should be consulted with a specialist.

A recurring theme in the discussions was that the greatest barrier to returning to physical activity is often not the effort itself, but the first step - leaving the house, overcoming fear of judgment, fear of pain, or the belief that “it’s no longer for me.” It was stressed that everyday, moderate movement - such as walking, climbing stairs, or going shopping on foot - can be the beginning of lasting change.

An example of an accessible form of activity discussed was Zumba Gold, presented as classes conducted without pressure for perfection or a sense of being evaluated. Participants can move at their own pace, while the group becomes a space for meeting, conversation, and mutual support. This social dimension is particularly important for older adults, helping them overcome loneliness, regain confidence, and strengthen their sense of belonging within the local community.

An important topic was also the activation of people with disabilities and those with limited mobility. The speakers emphasized that support should not mean over-assistance, but rather thoughtful guidance toward regaining independence and a sense of agency. Properly selected forms of movement - including adapted elements of martial arts that do not require contact or competition - can support coordination, concentration, physical fitness, mental well-being, and social integration. Safety, proper instructor training, and an individualised approach remain essential.

The broadcasts also highlighted the potential for cooperation between the university and the broader community, including patient organisations, senior groups, breast cancer survivor associations, and public health advocates. One possible direction involves sports and recreational initiatives tailored to participants’ abilities, such as an inclusive Spartakiad based on gentle, participatory competition. JDU students could play an important role in such initiatives, contributing energy, knowledge, and fresh perspectives, while also learning from older individuals and those with lived experience of illness or disability.

Through its Institute of Physical Culture Sciences and programmes offered within the Collegium Medicum of JDU - including physical education - the university has significant potential to develop local initiatives in health education, prevention, and physical activation. “Chwila dla zdrowia” demonstrated that science, practice, and social awareness can come together for a common goal: improving the quality of life of regional residents and building a community in which physical activity is accessible to as many people as possible.

 
About the Programme
Series: “Chwila dla zdrowia”
Broadcaster: Radio Fiat
Host: Elżbieta Markowska

Episode #26
Topic: physical activity, Zumba Gold, the first step toward movement, prevention, seniors, and intergenerational integration
Guests: Prof. Jacek Wąsik; Beata Niemczyk-Bajor

link

Episode #27
Topic: activation of people with disabilities, quality of life, appropriately selected forms of movement, and possible directions for cooperation between academia and social/patient organisations
Guest: Prof. Jacek Wąsik

link